Sump For Fw Tropical Tank?

[Steve H.]

I will soon be getting a new tank either a 75gL or a 60gL. Both 48" I just haven't decided if I want the taller and narrow less volume, or the shorter and wider more volume tank.

Regardless, I would like to build a sump for filtration. I have seen many for saltwater set-ups, but have not seen them used in a fresh water set-up.

Are they not practical in a fresh water set-up for any reason?

My idea for the new tank is that I would like to stock the new tank with species native to streams and slow rivers. Use the sump system for filtration as well as us the return water to simulate a current left to right or vise versa.
Sounds great in my head, but not sure that would even work?

If there is anyone with sump experience?

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

To be honest IMO, 75gl does not need such heavy filtration. and you can achieve stream flow with an external such as an Eheim Classic or similar for less hassle. However, I was looking at sump filters simply to hide all tank clutter, and I found this link on youtube http/www.youtube.c...n_order&list=UL ........Fast forward past the waffle about the fish, and it is quite good. Also if you look at the guys channel there is details on how he built it. Back to the start......why bother with 75gl? Go buy a good external.

 

[Steve H.]

To be honest IMO, 75gl does not need such heavy filtration. and you can achieve stream flow with an external such as an Eheim Classic or similar for less hassle. However, I was looking at sump filters simply to hide all tank clutter, and I found this link on youtube http/www.youtube.c...n_order&list=UL ........Fast forward past the waffle about the fish, and it is quite good. Also if you look at the guys channel there is details on how he built it. Back to the start......why bother with 75gl? Go buy a good external.

I can see your point. I guess I really like the idea of a sump for a number of reasons:
Increased water volume
Can hide heaters and other equipment underneath,
Less hardware in the display tank,
Easier maintenance

I have an idea that I can build a small basin that the sump will sit in, and add a drain. I can plumb the drain through the wall, and out to the flower garden on the other side. This basin and drain will not only help if the sump ever leaks, but I can also add a quick connect for a hose when I do my weekly water changes. I guess I'm just lazy and looking for a way to cut my lugging buckets work in half.

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

To be honest IMO, 75gl does not need such heavy filtration. and you can achieve stream flow with an external such as an Eheim Classic or similar for less hassle. However, I was looking at sump filters simply to hide all tank clutter, and I found this link on youtube http/www.youtube.c...n_order&list=UL ........Fast forward past the waffle about the fish, and it is quite good. Also if you look at the guys channel there is details on how he built it. Back to the start......why bother with 75gl? Go buy a good external.

I can see your point. I guess I really like the idea of a sump for a number of reasons:
Increased water volume
Can hide heaters and other equipment underneath,
Less hardware in the display tank,
Easier maintenance

I have an idea that I can build a small basin that the sump will sit in, and add a drain. I can plumb the drain through the wall, and out to the flower garden on the other side. This basin and drain will not only help if the sump ever leaks, but I can also add a quick connect for a hose when I do my weekly water changes. I guess I'm just lazy and looking for a way to cut my lugging buckets work in half.

Then for those reasons it is worth checking out that guys videos, and all your questions will be answered....... I think